Eva "Irene" Henderson

Eva “Irene” Henderson, 75, of Monrovia, left this world unexpectedly on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Franciscan Health in Mooresville. She was born on December 16, 1950, in Keysville, Georgia, to the late Theodore Arrington and Mary Lou (Pritchett) Arrington. Spending her childhood in the South, Irene started her family just after high school then made the northern trek to Indiana in the early 1970s, where she made her home and raised her family. Irene found the love of her life and true soul mate, Don, in 1993 while both were working at Miller’s Merry Manor—he as a maintenance man and she as a compassionate QMA. After she playfully passed her phone number to him through a mutual friend, the rest was history. Together, they spent twenty-six blissful years blending their loving families and building a beautiful life. Together they shared many years of love, companionship, and adventure. Whether tending their vegetable garden, preserving the harvest through canning, or enjoying time outdoors camping and fishing, Irene and Don created a life centered on family and simple pleasures. Irene found joy in baking and cooking for those she loved. She especially cherished spending time with her grandchildren, creating memories that will be treasured forever. She enjoyed watching crime shows, particularly Dateline NBC, and loved the outdoors. One of her proud accomplishments was walking the five-mile Mackinac Bridge in Michigan. Those who knew Irene will remember her as fiery, spunky, sweet, loving, and incredibly funny. She was never afraid to speak her mind and tell it like it was, yet beneath her strong spirit was a nurturing heart that cared deeply for family and friends. Her warmth, laughter, and unwavering love will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald P. Henderson; her son, Eddie Rice; her daughter-in-law, Emily Rice; and her grandson, Nick Rice. Irene is survived by her children, Billy Rice (Sonya) of Paragon, Cindy (Mark) of Monrovia, Don Henderson of Mooresville, John Henderson (Debbie) of Camby, and Lori Faulkenberg (Eric) of Monrovia; grandchildren, Michael Tackett (Martha) of Indianapolis, Cody Rice of Kokomo, and Makayla Rice (Devon Duncan) of Martinsville; six great-grandchildren; a special family friend who was like a daughter, Julie Kennedy (Michael) of Camby; and three nieces. Irene's family will remember her for the love she shared, the meals she prepared, the wisdom she offered, and the laughter she brought into every room. Her strength, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her. Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia. Visitation will be held prior to the service on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 11:00am until a Celebration of Life Service begins at 1:00pm. Minister Luke Jackson will officiate, and Irene will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband, Don, in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery, Hall following services. To share a favorite story, send an online condolence to the family, or light a candle in her memory, please visit her tribute page at www.lightmemorial.com.

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Eva "Irene" Henderson

December 16, 1950 - June 11, 2026